Shingles is a painful medical condition caused by a viral infection. People with shingles, which is also called herpes zoster, develop blisters and a rash that typically starts around the middle of the back and spreads around to the chest area. The face and scalp are also commonly affected. Shingles is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. Once a person contracts chickenpox, the virus remains in the body but is dormant. Shingles occurs when the virus reactivates. Shingles will usually heal without medical intervention, but treatment speeds recovery and reduces the chances of complications.
Antiviral Drugs
Because shingles is caused by a viral infection, doctors typically will prescribe antiviral medication to help combat the infection. Commonly prescribed medicines include valacyclovir (brand name Valtrex), famciclovir (brand name Famvir) and acyclovir (brand name Zovirax). Antiviral drugs are particularly useful at helping patients avoid a painful condition called postherpetic neuralgia that occurs after the shingles rash disappears. Antiviral drugs will be most effective if treatment begins within three days of the rash first appearing.
Pain Relief
Because the shingles rash often is very painful, many patients will use a pain reliever to help keep them comfortable. Some patients may be helped by over-the-counter pain medications, but many times doctors will prescribe stronger, prescription druga to help alleviate the pain. In the most severe cases, a prescription narcotic may be necessary to keep patients comfortable. Because itching often accompanies the painful rash, a topical anti-itch cream, such as calamine lotion or hydrocortisone, can be applied to the rash. Applying wet compresses to the rash two to three times a day can also help alleviate both the pain and itching.
Anti-Inflammatories
In severe cases of shingles, the rash will be swollen and inflamed, causing additional discomfort. Taking a prescription corticosteroid drug such as prednisone will help stop the inflammation. Taking an anti-inflammatory medication can also help prevent the onset of postherpetic neuralgia.
Hygiene
It is important for people with shingles to keep the rash and blisters clean to prevent complications such as infection. Thoroughly wash the affected area with soap and water twice a day and then pat dry. Do not put bandages on the rash. Taking a cool bath can also help clean the area and at the same time alleviate some of the pain and itching. For additional relief, add baking soda or uncooked oatmeal to the bath water.
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